Conservation commission recommends Planning Board allow Bruno storage building near wetland with conditions

The Bristol Conservation Commission on Jan. 7 recommended that the Planning Board allow a proposed 50-by-30-foot steel storage building at 61 Country Club Road despite its location inside the 50-foot wetland setback, provided construction and ongoing use follow specified protections.

The recommendation followed a staff reading of Special Use Permit application #26SUP01 and Water & Sewer Department comments flagging potential impacts to the wetland and the property's location within the Wellhead Protection Zone. Commissioner discussion focused on proximity to the wetland, access, and the risk that vehicle fluids or outside storage could result in pollution migrating into the wetland.

Applicant Phillip Bruno said the building would "house his classic cars and snowmobiles," would have no plumbing or septic, and would be used for storage and occasional tinkering only. Staff noted the structure would sit approximately 38 feet from the previously delineated wetland edge.

Commissioners recommended approval to the Planning Board with conditions: adherence to erosion- and siltation-control best management practices during construction; implementation of measures to limit runoff and avoid pollutant migration (plantings or rain-garden options were suggested); and a requirement that any future change of use or addition of water/sewer services trigger re-application and review. Richard Metcalf reviewed the applicable setback and buffer considerations during the discussion.

Chair Richard Batchelder moved the recommendation and Vice Chair Liz Miller seconded; the motion carried 4-0-0.

The Planning Board will receive the Commission's recommendation and may impose the Commission's suggested conditions if it approves the permit.